The Matagalpa region is known as the "Pearl of the North", because it is made up of lakes, mountains, and volcanoes. The fertility of the land and the altitude in the highlands make it ideal for growing one of the finest coffees in the world. Their coffee is certified organic. The people of Nicaragua strive for "sustainable coffee," offering a higher quality of life for workers, environmental quality, and a quality cup of coffee. Nicaraguan coffee is shade grown, meaning a canopy of trees covers the coffee plants. This offers two benefits; a slower growing cycle for the plants that allows time for the sugars in the beans to mature, and the preservation of the natural habitat. The sun dries Finca Estate coffee naturally, so you get a definite "mountain aroma" in every cup. Dark roasted and medium bodied, this fine Nicaraguan coffee has a mild, clean flavor with a delicate honey-like sweetness.
Irving Farm is located 90 miles from New York City within the Hudson Valley region of upstate New York. The farm sits in a serene farming community at the foothills of both the Berkshire and Catskill Mountain ranges. All coffee is roasted in an early 19th century carriage house that has been converted into a modern roasting facility. Estate grown coffee beans are shipped directly to Irving Farm where they are stored in a climate-controlled environment. Before roasting, each bean undergoes extensive study and cupping to determine its optimum roasting profile. Since every coffee is different, whether through climatic growing conditions or altitude of the growing environment, the roasting times and temperatures are also different.
Store Your Coffee Beans
It is recommended that you store your coffee beans in an airtight container at room temperature. Do not store coffee in the refrigerator or freezer, as it will absorb moisture that will limit the life and flavor of the beans. Whole bean coffee lasts longer than ground coffee so only grind what you plan on brewing and store the rest.
Measure the Right Amount of Coffee
The key to making great coffee is using the correct proportion of coffee to water. For the richest, most flavorful cup of coffee, use two tablespoons of freshly ground coffee per six-ounces of water. If this formula is too strong for you, add hot water to your coffee after it has already brewed.
Use Freshly Ground Coffee
The best cup of coffee can only come from freshly ground coffee beans. For the best results, coffee should be ground just before brewing. Each brewing device requires its own grind.
Basics of Grinding
Very fine grind - Espresso machines
Fine grind - Neapolitan Flip/Drip method
Medium grind - Electric/Drip method/French Press
Coarse grind - Percolator
Brew with the Best Water
It is important to use fresh, cold water for coffee brewing. A cup of coffee is 98% water, therefore, use water free of impurities, such as bottled or filtered.
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